Mary Frances Lerner

Elkhart: Mary Frances Lerner, 92, died peacefully on Wednesday, March 8, 2023 at her home in Elkhart. She was born on March 1, 1931, the daughter of Russell W. and Pansy M. (Cook) Lerner. She graduated from Elkhart High School in 1948 and worked in the office of Adams & Westlake Ltd. She left that job over 20 years later and entered the University of Notre Dame where she graduated in 1976 having earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Industrial Design and Advertising. Following Notre Dame graduation she opened Design Studios, a small advertising agency. Eventually, when this business was closed, she opened The Feeding Station, a wild bird business devoted to birds and multiple bird supplies, food, etc. As an avid gardener, she thoroughly enjoyed meeting with customers and relating stories about gardens, flowers and birds. She also presented seminars for local garden clubs and other interested individuals in gardening and birds.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents, Russell W. Lerner and Pansy M. (Cook) Lerner and brothers Russell W. Lerner Jr. and David C. Lerner.

Survivors include her nephews, John (Mel Ann) Lerner, Bethalto, IL, Tom Lerner, and Michael Lerner, Elkhart, and nieces, Anna L. (Russell) Boucher, Leesburg, Rebecca J. (Larry) Gulley, Marion, and Susan K. (Chris) Boucher, Marion, and her longtime Caregiver and friend Millie Ferro.

Mary was a lifelong member of St. Paul’s United Methodist Church where the memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. with visitation 1 hour prior on Wednesday, March 15, 2023 at St. Paul’s United Methodist Church, 405 W. Beardsley Ave., Elkhart, IN 46514. Pastor Tom DeFries will officiate. Billings Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. Cremation has taken place. Online condolences maty be sent to the family at www.billingsfuneralhome.com

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